If you're a teenager applying for your first driver's license in Wisconsin, you must complete both driver's training and supervised behind-the-wheel practice to satisfy the graduated driver license (GDL) requirements of the Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

The WI DMV behind-the-wheel requirements will help you gain valuable driving experience and develop the skills necessary to pass your driving test and get on the road with your first driver's license.

On this page you'll find information about your behind-the-wheel requirements and the next steps in the Wisconsin GDL program.

WI Behind-the-Wheel Requirements

If you're younger than 18 years old, you must complete the following Wisconsin behind-the-wheel training requirements:

At least 30 hours of supervised driving practice.

At least 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training as part of a Driver's Ed/driver's training course.

You can begin the GDL program and start your behind-the-wheel practice when you are 15 1/2 years old by applying for your learner's permit and enrolling in a driver's education course.

For more information about applying for a learner's permit and enrolling in driver's education, please visit our following pages:

Driver's Training in Wisconsin

Behind-the-wheel driver's training is a component of Wisconsin Driver's Ed courses and is provided by:

High schools.

Professional driver's training schools.

The in-car component of your course must include at least 6 hours of behind-the-wheel practice and 6 hours of observation.

During your in-car driver's training with your certified driving instructor, you'll be able to immediately and directly apply the lessons you'll have learned in the classroom. Your driving instructor may even be able to provide you with additional safe driving techniques that will help you when you begin your supervised driving practice and take your driving test.

Once you complete both the classroom and behind-the-wheel components of your driver's education/driver's training program, you will receive a completion certificate.

WI Behind-the-Wheel Practice

While you hold your learner's permit, you are
authorized to drive ONLY while supervised by:

Your parent/legal guardian or spouse who is at least 19 years old.OR

A licensed adult who is at least 21 years old, if you have written permission from your parent/legal guardian.